Kathmandu, February 1. UCPN-Maoist Chairman Prachanda has said that India’s unofficial blockade will be lifted only after an agreement is reached with the Madheshi Morcha on redrawing of provincial boundaries.

• Government of national unity needed
• Oli could lead such a govt
• Prachanda not in contention
• Don’t think blockade will ease until provincial boundaries are redrawn

Prachanda, who was speaking to mediapersons at his party’s headquarters in Kathmandu, said major parties, including the Nepali Congress, need to agree to form a government of national unity, but he was not in contention to become Prime Minister.

The ruling alliance leader said that such as government could be formed before the Nepali Congress General Convention, which is just weeks away. “If everyone agrees, Prime Minsiter Oli could lead the new government,” added Prachanda.

He said the it was unlikely that the blockade would be lifted until provincial boundaries are redrawn to address the demands of the Madheshi Morcha.